Six European Countries Accused of Online Gambling Legal Violations

• Published: November 22, 2013
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In news this week we learned that the world is still struggling with adjusting to the online casino industry, and many different parts of the world have their own ways of going about legal and regulated online gambling. Over the past week six Member States of the European Union have been accused of not complying with the region's legislation about online gambling. The European Commission gave them the notice this week as it will begin the formal infringement process against them and they will have to build a case to explain themselves, or else the Commission will take regulatory measures against them.

“Today’s decision by the Commission is highly significant as it will bring further legal clarity to the online gambling market in the EU. We commend Commissioner Barnier and his services for their perseverance and commitment to making sure gambling regulation functions properly. EGBA urges Member States to use this opportunity to put in place effective, commercially viable gambling legislation which takes into account the CJEU requirements and to avoid the need for litigation at the Court of Justice,” said Maarten Haijer, the European Gaming and Betting Association Secretary General.

The six Member States received an official letter from the European Commission in which they receive notice of the accusation and a request to provide information on their laws concerning online gambling throughout Europe. The countries being accused are Romania, Lithuania, Poland, Belgium, Cyprus, and the Czech republic. Other countries are also under investigation, including Hungary, Greece, the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden, and France. In the case of Sweden we know that they have been given an eight week time frame to comply with European Union online gambling laws, as they have failed to comply with them despite the organization's multiple requests in the past.

The Remote Gambling Association sided with the European Union's actions, and Clive Owen, the CEO made a statement which read: Although we are fully aware that, under certain conditions, market restrictions can be deemed lawful and justified, we are entitled to the free provision of services and due regard must be given to those rights. We once again look to the Commission, as guardian of the Treaties, to enforce those provisions and we expect that those countries subject to a proceeding will introduce the required changes as soon as possible."

We will keep you updated on any developments, and if you live in any of those countries keep an eye out for any new legislative updates.